Huey Long Quotes

Powerful Huey Long for Daily Growth

About Huey Long

Huey Pierce Long Jr., often referred to as "The Kingfish," was an influential American politician born on August 30, 1893, in Winn Parish, Louisiana. Raised in rural poverty, he attended Louisiana State University but dropped out due to financial difficulties. However, his early life experiences significantly influenced his political beliefs and ambitions. Long's career took off when he was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives at age 23. His charismatic personality, populist rhetoric, and ambitious reform plans quickly gained him a strong following, earning him the nickname "Kingfish." In 1928, Long became the Governor of Louisiana, a position he held for two terms until 1932. Long's most significant impact on American politics came during his tenure as a United States Senator from 1935 to 1936 and again from 1937 until his assassination in 1935. He was a prominent figure of the New Deal, advocating for widespread economic reforms, including his "Share Our Wealth" program, which aimed to redistribute wealth by placing a maximum limit on personal fortunes. Long's major works include "Every Man a King" (1933), a book outlining his political philosophy and ideas for societal transformation, and numerous speeches that reflected his populist style and advocacy for the common man. His quotations, such as "When you see a good thing, stick to it," and "The government must not only feed the hungry, but clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, educate the ignorant, and teach the criminal to be law-abiding," continue to resonate today. Despite his controversial and often radical political ideas, Huey Long remains a significant figure in American history, embodying the spirit of populism and economic reform that characterized the New Deal era. His life and work continue to inspire political debate and analysis.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

Huey Long's quote, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself," highlights the destructive power of fear on individuals and society as a whole. It suggests that the greatest obstacle in our path is not external threats or challenges, but rather our own fears and anxiety about them. By overcoming this crippling emotion, we can face adversity with courage and resilience, making progress towards achieving our goals and building a better future. In essence, Long's quote serves as a call to action, urging us to conquer fear and forge ahead with confidence and determination.


"It's not the strong that survive, but the very, very adaptable."

This quote suggests that survival is less about raw strength or power, but rather the ability to adapt effectively in response to changing circumstances or environments. In other words, it's not just the strongest or toughest individuals who thrive, but those with the greatest capacity for change, flexibility, and resilience.


"Every man a king, every day a court of impeachment, every man an officer under oath to uphold the Constitution."

Huey Long's quote suggests a democratic ideal where every individual is empowered and responsible, functioning as both ruler (king) and overseer (court of impeachment). It implies that citizens should actively participate in their governance, holding themselves accountable to uphold the Constitution. Essentially, Long envisioned a society where people are vigilant guardians of democracy, ensuring the laws and principles set forth in the Constitution are respected daily.


"The American people have the right and the authority to govern themselves according to their own choices through their elected representatives."

This quote by Huey Long asserts the principle of popular sovereignty in the United States, emphasizing that the power resides with the people. He underscores the idea that the American people have the right to make decisions about how they are governed through their elected representatives. Essentially, he is advocating for a strong, democratic system where the citizens' voices and choices hold primary importance in government.


"We must lay hold of the fact that economic power confers political power; we must make our choices wisely."

This quote by Huey Long emphasizes the interconnectedness between economic and political power. He suggests that having control over economic resources (economic power) translates into political influence, or the ability to shape decisions within a society (political power). In other words, he underscores the importance of understanding this relationship when making decisions and choices about how economic resources are distributed, as it will impact the balance of political power.


The time has come for all good men to rise above principle.

- Huey Long

Men, Rise Above, Principle, Good Men

Hard work is damn near as overrated as monogamy.

- Huey Long

Work, Hard Work, Damn, Overrated

One of these days the people of Louisiana are going to get good government - and they aren't going to like it.

- Huey Long

People, Like, Going, Louisiana

I do not want the voice of the people shut out.

- Huey Long

Voice, People, Want, Shut

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